JACKSONVILLE, AL – The Jacksonville City Board of Education approved an amendment to an energy savings contract, authorized funding for roadway improvements near Kitty Stone Elementary School and recognized two students during its Tuesday, October 20, 2026, meeting.
The meeting included a presentation outlining planned improvements at Jacksonville High School, including upgrades to the cafeteria kitchen’s heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system, classroom climate control equipment and gymnasium lighting.
Jacksonville High School Facility Improvements
Todd Smith and Claire Meeks presented the next phase of facility improvements under the school system’s guaranteed energy cost savings contract with Schneider Electric Buildings America Inc.
Smith explained that the existing HVAC equipment serving the Jacksonville High School kitchen has been undersized for an extended period, contributing to excessive heat and humidity in the food preparation area.
The proposed improvements will include larger HVAC equipment, upgraded electrical service, structural modifications, new ductwork and additional components necessary to accommodate the replacement systems.
The work is intended to improve conditions for cafeteria employees while addressing the facility’s ventilation and cooling needs.
Because the improvements will require temporarily closing the high school kitchen, the project is planned for the summer months to minimize disruptions during the academic year. If food service is needed during construction, operations could be handled through Kitty Stone Elementary School.
The project will also include replacing water-source heat pumps in three additional classrooms at Jacksonville High School. Those classrooms were selected based on identified maintenance and equipment needs.
Another component of the project involves converting the high school gymnasium’s existing lighting to LED fixtures.
Smith said the new lighting is expected to improve visibility and reduce energy consumption. The upgrades will include LED high-bay fixtures and exit signs.
According to the presentation, the new lighting system is expected to use approximately half the energy of the existing system.
Project representatives indicated that the goal is to complete the gymnasium lighting improvements before the next basketball season, subject to required approvals and project scheduling.
A permanent access ladder will also be installed behind the high school kitchen to allow maintenance personnel to service the new rooftop equipment more efficiently.
Following the presentation, the board approved an amendment to its guaranteed energy cost savings contract with Schneider Electric Buildings America Inc.
Board Approves Contribution Toward Roadway Paving
The board also approved a recommendation for Jacksonville City Schools to contribute approximately $38,000 toward paving a roadway behind Kitty Stone Elementary School.
The contribution represents one-third of the estimated project cost.
Students Recognized for Academic and Extracurricular Achievements
Two Jacksonville students were recognized for their academic accomplishments, leadership and involvement in school activities.
Elliot Achley was recognized as the September Junior Eagle.
Achley maintains a 3.6 grade point average and participates in the National Junior Honor Society, Student Council and Peer Helpers. She also competes in cross-country, basketball and softball.
School representatives highlighted her academic performance, leadership and involvement in extracurricular activities.
Stevie Blackburn was recognized as the September Senior Eagle.
Blackburn ranks first in her class, maintains a 4.0 GPA and has earned recognition as an AP Scholar.
She participates in Student Council, FFA, Key Club, National Honor Society and Mu Alpha Theta. Her additional activities include serving as a school ambassador, participating in the Scholars Bowl team and involvement in youth leadership programs.
Blackburn is also a three-year varsity tennis player and participates in volunteer activities. She has worked for Jacksonville City Schools during summer breaks.
School representatives recognized both students for their accomplishments and contributions to their school communities.
Additional Board Business
During the meeting, the board approved several additional items, including:
- Minutes from the September 8, 2026, budget meeting and September 10, 2026, regular board meeting.
- August 2026 accounts payable and acceptance of the August financial statement.
- The Jacksonville City Schools 2026–2027 supplemental pay schedule.
- Selection of a board representative for the Alabama Association of School Boards delegate assembly scheduled for December 3, 2026, in Montgomery.
Board Members Express Support for Students and Staff
During closing comments, board members discussed recent public attention involving Jacksonville High School athletics and expressed support for students, coaches and school personnel.
Members acknowledged the efforts of the football team, cheerleaders, band, coaches and other individuals involved in school activities.
Board members also praised the community’s support of Jacksonville City Schools and recognized the leadership of Superintendent Dr. Michael Barber and Jacksonville High School administrator Mr. Skinner.
The discussion did not include a detailed explanation of the circumstances surrounding the recent public attention.
Next Meeting
The board confirmed its next meeting for Tuesday, November 10, 2026, at 5:30 p.m.
